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Early Bumblebee

Scientific name: Bombus pratorum

One of our prettiest and smallest bumble bees, the Early Bumblebee has a bright orange tail and lemon-yellow bands on its body. It is very common and can be found in all kinds of habitats in early spring.

Species information

Category

Statistics

Length: 1.6-1.8cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

March to June

About

The Early Bumblebee is one of our most common bumble bee species and is found throughout the UK in all kinds of habitats. It is a small bee and an important pollinator of soft fruit, such as raspberries and blackberries. It visits long, tubular flowers and open flowers, and the queens are commonly seen on Rhododendrons. Early Bumblebees nest underground in colonies of fewer than 100 workers, often using the old nests of small mammals. They may also nest in in old birds' nests, tree holes or bird boxes. As the common name suggests, the queens emerge from hibernation early in the year, between March and May, depending on latitude. In the south, they may even have a second generation later in the year.

How to identify

The Early Bumblebee is relatively small, with distinctive lemon-yellow bands on its thorax and abdomen, and an orange tail.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

The Early Bumblebee is not picky about the flowers it likes to get nectar from and is known to visit more than 140 different species!

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.